Punjab Chases Down Record-Breaking Target to Defeat Kolkata

In a stunning display of power-hitting, Punjab Kings achieved a historic victory against Kolkata Knight Riders in the 42nd match of the IPL 2024 series. Punjab chased down a mammoth target of 262 runs set by Kolkata, registering a remarkable win by 8 wickets at the Eden Gardens Cricket Ground.

Kolkata, batting first, posted a formidable total of 261 runs on the board, thanks to stellar performances from Phil Salt (75 runs) and Sunil Narine (71 runs). However, their efforts were overshadowed by Punjab relentless pursuit of victory.

Punjab openers, Prab Simran Singh (54 runs off 20 balls) and Jonny Bairstow (108 not out), provided a blazing start to the chase. Their partnership laid a solid foundation for Punjab’s innings. Riley Rossouw (26 runs off 16 balls) and Shashank Singh (68 not out off 28 balls) further propelled Punjab towards the target.

The match witnessed a contentious moment when, in the 14th over, Punjab fielder Ashutosh Sharma brilliantly intercepted a shot from Kolkata Andre Russell, preventing a boundary. However, the ball went wide, and the wicketkeeper failed to collect it. Russell managed to take a single, but the on-field umpire, Anil Chowdhury, ruled it as a dead ball.

This decision sparked a heated argument between Kolkata team advisor, Gautam Gambhir, and the fourth umpire. Gambhir vehemently protested, questioning the decision not to award the run to Kolkata. However, the fourth umpire stood by the decision, stating that they were acting within the rules.

Despite the controversy, Punjab dominant performance made them the first team in IPL history to successfully chase down a target of 262 runs. This victory not only secured Punjab’s third win of the season but also kept their hopes alive for a spot in the playoffs.

With this stunning win, Punjab Kings have not only made a mark in IPL history but also set a new world record for the highest successful run chase in T20 cricket, thrilling fans and pundits alike.